Book of Nahum - Chapter 1 - Verse 1

The verse "The burden of Nineveh. The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite" is from the Book of Nahum in the Old Testament. This verse introduces the prophet Nahum's vision and prophecy concerning the downfall of the powerful city of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Nahum's message is a warning of God's coming judgment on Nineveh for its wickedness and oppression of other nations. The burden mentioned in the verse refers to the weight of Nahum's prophecy and the impending doom that will befall Nineveh. Nahum, whose name means "comfort" or "consolation," likely wrote this book to bring comfort to the oppressed Israelites by assuring them of God's justice and eventual deliverance from their enemies. The significance of this verse lies in its portrayal of God's sovereignty and his righteousness in dealing with nations and individuals according to their deeds.

The verse "The burden of Nineveh. The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite" introduces the prophetic book of Nahum in the Old Testament. The mention of Nineveh as a burden sets the tone for the entire book, as Nahum prophesies the downfall of this powerful city due to its wickedness and arrogance. The word 'burden' here carries a sense of a heavy load or judgment that Nineveh would have to bear for its sins. Nahum, as the Elkoshite, is believed to be from a town called Elkosh, although its exact location is uncertain. The theological interpretation of this verse reveals God's justice and sovereignty over nations. Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, represents a city that has turned away from God and is facing the consequences of its actions. The use of the term 'vision' also highlights Nahum's role as a prophet who received divine revelations about the impending destruction of Nineveh. Overall, this verse sets the stage for Nahum's prophecy and emphasizes the importance of repentance and obedience to God's will.